Laser Cutter DOE: Analysis of Varaition In Cutting Parameters

Diagram showing the four cutting patterns explored in the DOE.

Diagram showing the four cutting patterns explored in the DOE.

Schematic showing the three laser cutter bed locations explored in the DOE.

Schematic showing the three laser cutter bed locations explored in the DOE.

What is it?: 

As a part of 2.830 (Control of Manufacturing Processes) spring 2019, I worked with two other team members to analyze the variance that occurs during laser cutting and the factors that affect laser cut job time. We cut one-inch squares in various patterns and orientations along different bed locations of a laser cutter, and we performed an analysis of variance on the resulting data.

We concluded that for the laser cutter used in the study, the optimal settings for laser cutting one inch squares were in a grid pattern at a 45 degree orientation on the right side of the bed.

Read our full report with our test plan and data results here!

How did you contribute?

As a member of a three-person team, my primary responsibility was controlling the metrology- I conducted all of the measurements of the squares; we wanted to stick to one person measuring to reduce operator variation. I also helped produce the ANOVA tables and regressions on the data, as well as describe our team’s findings in the report.

Biggest Takeaways?

  • How to come up with a general idea and develop a test plan that answers the question at hand

  • The importance of DOE and ANOVA in the manufacturing process

CONTRIBUTORS

Or Oppenheimer, Annie Hughes